3 Alarming Facts About Your Gums:1. 7 out of 10 Canadians will develop gum disease in their lifetime2. Periodontitis is associated with heart disease, respiratory illnesses and more3. Stress, diet, poor oral care, and genetics all have an impact on your gums

Gingivitis is a very common form of gum disease. When gingivitis is present:Pocket depth may increase due to swelling.The gums may bleed more easily when touched.The bone level does not change around the tooth.

Floss or risk losing your teeth! That’s what gum experts say. The American Association of Periodontology (AAP) is a leading U.S. dental group representing more than 8,000 periodontists in the U.S. According to Dr. Wayne Aldredge, president of the AAP: "Gum disease is typically caused when prolonged exposure to bacteria in dental plaque causes an inflammatory reaction. Flossing is an effective and useful way to remove the plaque, especially in between the teeth or under the gum line-places where a toothbrush cannot reach." A build-up of plaque can lead to gingivitis – which if left untreated – can lead to tooth loss.

Periodontists are dentistry's experts in treating periodontal (gum) disease. They receive years of specialized training in this area. Periodontists are also experts in replacing missing teeth with dental implants. Curious about what types of treatments are possible for your periodontal health? Get a 101 here www.perio.org/consumer/treatments-procedures

Not happy with how your smile looks? Good news: you can get a smile makeover! Procedures like dental implants can help restore your smile, and confidence. Talk to a periodontist to learn more about implants. And check out this article to learn more: www.cap-acp.ca/en/public/implant.html

Why do gums recede? Attached tissue surrounding a tooth becomes thinner and more susceptible to breakdown. This can happen for several reasons, such as brushing too hard or gingivitis, which is caused by plaque deposits. If not managed, gum recession can lead to tooth loss. See for yourself how gums recede www.cap-acp.ca/en/public/gingival_recession.html

Did you know that drinking plenty of H2O can help combat bad breath? That, plus a good oral care regimen and seeing your dental professional regularly. But, sometimes, it may be caused by gum disease. If you want to know for sure, book an appointment with a periodontist – a certified gum expert.

A professor-scientist partnership has proven to be successful when it comes to treating a rare genetic oral health disorder. A professor at the Penn School of Dental Medicine and a scientist at the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research collaborated to develop a successful treatment for leukocyte adhesion deficiency (LAD), a condition that leads to recurrent bacterial infections, gum disease, and lost teeth early in life, as described in a recent study in the New England Journal of Medicine. Read more here www.dentistrytoday.com/news/industrynews/item/1888-partnership-leads-to-treatment-for-rare-gum-disease